Comoros honors Quran memorizers in major religious ceremony

Ceremony in Mbeni recognizes 184 participants, including mothers and fathers, in nationwide Quran memorization competition

MORONI, Comoros (MNTV)  — A major Quran memorization competition concluded in the town of Mbeni on Sunday, April 20, with a public ceremony honoring 184 participants for their commitment to Islamic scholarship.

The event was organized by the Foundation for the Memorization of the Quran and the Affairs of Quranic Schools in Mbeni.

The ceremony drew a large crowd, including scholars, preachers, members of the jury, local officials, and families of participants.

The president of the foundation, Abou Bakar Mohamed Abdou, highlighted the initiative’s aim to inspire and protect youth by anchoring them in the teachings of the Quran.

“We are committed to serving those who excel in memorizing the Holy Quran and shielding our youth from moral decay and idleness,” Abdou said, applauding the community of Mbeni—both at home and in the diaspora—for its support.

He also noted administrative and educational advancements made by the foundation, including the recent launch of a Quran recitation program for faters, following the earlier introduction of a similar branch for mothers.

Dr. Abdou Al Hakim Mohamed Chakir, who addressed the audience during the ceremony, urged participants to memorize and recite the Quran with sincerity and humility.

“Do not seek fame or praise. Live according to the character the Quran teaches,” he said, emphasizing the scripture’s universal relevance beyond time and culture.

The president of the jury, Mohammed Taoufik, announced that out of 334 participants, 184 were recognized for their excellence in various categories.

Among them were 112 adult participants—21 fathers and 91 mothers—highlighting the intergenerational appeal of Quranic scholarship in the country.

The ceremony concluded with the distribution of certificates to the laureates, honoring their dedication to preserving the teachings of the Quran.